THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE — Magnus von Horn on the dark past...and present
Feb 6, 2025
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Magnus von Horn, a Swedish director known for his thought-provoking film 'The Girl with the Needle', joins guest host Anna Bogutskaya to discuss the chilling origins of his horror narrative. They explore how the film intertwines fears of parenthood with historical oppression, shedding light on the societal issues facing women in Copenhagen's dark past. Von Horn shares insights into the complex casting process and the collaborative nature of character development, while connecting themes of villainy and systemic oppression to contemporary struggles for women's rights.
Magnus von Horn reflects on channeling his parental fears into creating 'The Girl with the Needle,' highlighting the relevance of historical darkness to modern parenting anxieties.
The film uses historical context to explore moral ambiguity, questioning whether societal conditions or individual choices define villainy in oppressive environments.
Deep dives
Exploring Personal Fears Through Horror
The film 'The Girl with the Needle' arose from the creator's personal fears surrounding the safety of children, a theme he has grappled with since becoming a parent. He sought to channel this fear into a creative project to prevent being consumed by it, ultimately discovering a narrative that resonated deeply with his own emotions. The story of a woman navigating the desperate conditions of World War I-era Copenhagen serves as a backdrop to illustrate these fears, emphasizing the dangers that can overshadow parental love and societal pressures. By exploring this dark theme in a historical context, the filmmaker hopes to evoke an emotional response that connects viewers with their own fears and the protective instincts surrounding parenthood.
Constructing an Emotionally True Historical World
The depiction of early 20th-century Copenhagen in the film prioritizes emotional truth over historical accuracy, capturing the bleakness and oppression of that era. The director emphasized the struggles faced by women in society, particularly poor women who had limited rights and opportunities. Elements of visual storytelling draw inspiration from classic literature, like that of Dickens, achieving an aesthetically beautiful yet haunting representation of a harsh world. This artistic choice enhances the narrative's emotional impact, illustrating how dire circumstances can corrupt humanity, all while crafting an immersive experience for the audience.
Complexity of Morality in Storytelling
The film delves into moral ambiguity, questioning the nature of villainy in a world where societal conditions breed darkness. The characters reflect their environment and the challenges they face, prompting discussions about whether the true villain lies within individuals or the oppressive societal structures surrounding them. This complexity parallels contemporary issues, drawing uncomfortable connections between the film's historical context and modern societal struggles concerning women's rights and choices. By presenting these themes thoughtfully, the filmmaker hopes to remind viewers of the cyclical nature of oppression and the importance of learning from the past.
The Oscar-nominated THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE is inspired by the grim, gripping true story of one of Denmark's most infamous criminals. Director/co-writer Magnus von Horn tells guest host Anna Bogutskaya about recreating the horror of a century ago, and how it might not be all that different than right now.
THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE is now streaming exclusively on MUBI in North America, UK, Ireland, Latin America, Germany, Austria, Italy, Turkey and India.
To stream some of the films we've covered on the podcast, check out the collection Featured on the MUBI Podcast. Availability of films varies depending on your country.
MUBI is a global streaming service, production company and film distributor dedicated to elevating great cinema. MUBI makes, acquires, curates, and champions extraordinary films, connecting them to audiences all over the world. A place to discover ambitious new films and singular voices, from iconic directors to emerging auteurs. Each carefully chosen by MUBI’s curators.
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